The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Moshood Jimoh, has warned that the law will be enforced against any individual or group found culpable. He also assured the public that the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands will continue to maintain peace and security in the two states.

He made the remarks while receiving a Distinguished Award presented by National Express Newspaper in conjunction with Leadership Values and Crime Link Publication.

The AIG said the award came at a time when public-spirited individuals were identifying with the police as an institution that guarantees security and safety across the country.

“We are grateful for this award, and I dedicate it to all the officers and men of the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands, as well as the entire personnel of the Zone 2 Headquarters, for their efforts in keeping the zone safe.

“I was not present when the publisher met the people who recommended me, so it speaks well of the work we are doing. I am sure our efforts are being appreciated by the people of Lagos and Ogun states. There can be no progress without a secure environment.

“I want to assure everyone that any changes they will see will reflect improvements in police service delivery in the two states.

“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has given us marching orders to return to our respective zones and ensure that crime and criminality are reduced to the barest minimum. I want to assure you that we will not rest or bask in the euphoria of this award. Instead, it will challenge us to do even more. Appreciation should inspire greater commitment.”

He added: “I was recently admitted as a Fellow of the Institute of Fraud Examiners of Nigeria, which reflects the credibility of the way we manage investigations, relate with the public, and ensure that the conduct of police personnel in the two states conforms to best policing practices.

“We will not be deterred or intimidated but will continue to do our best for the sake of humanity. Anyone who disagrees with our actions should follow the laid-down procedures to seek redress.

“I want everyone to know that since assuming office, I have stopped the transfer of cases from the commands to the Zonal Headquarters. Even under pressure, I insist that cases must not be transferred. This is to ensure greater transparency in our operations, and we will continue to uphold this policy to ensure that Lagos and Ogun states remain secure. We appreciate constructive criticism because it helps us improve.

“However, some people have taken it upon themselves to act as police officers, courts, and executioners, and this is contrary to the established standards of investigation. No one should assume the role of judge before due process is followed.

“The law must catch up with every offender. The law is no respecter of persons, including myself as an AIG. We will continue to enforce the law at all times, no matter whose horse is gored.”

Speaking at the event, the Publisher of National Express Newspaper, Dr. Wole Odunsin, said: “This award is based on testimonials from Nigerians and traditional rulers, who commended AIG Jimoh for his outstanding performance and exemplary leadership qualities.

“The AIG has been working assiduously to combat crime in Lagos and Ogun states. He has remained committed to tackling all forms of heinous and violent crimes.

“AIG Jimoh is one of the leading Assistant Inspectors-General of Police in the country, and we can only appeal to him to keep up the good work.”

I also made a few minor editorial improvements for readability, such as changing “made the comment” to “made the remarks,” improving sentence flow, and standardizing quotations without altering the substance of the story.